This is “mini basket” woven from Suzu bamboo.
It is a very cute palm-sized basket with a diameter of about 9cm.

Although small in size, the texture, color, and weaving pattern of Suzu bamboo can be enjoyed to the fullest.

The basic method of making these baskets is much the same as that of large bamboo baskets used for storing clothing.
In this small basket, Iwate’s Suzu bamboo craftsmanship is concentrated.

It would be good as an accessory holder, a key holder, or a stamp holder.
Also be fun to use several in a row to hold clips, sticky notes, and other small stationery items.
In the kitchen, it can be used as a pepper or garlic stocker.

Since the time and effort required to make a large basket is no different than making a large basket,
these mini baskets are valuable, as fewer people are making mini-sized baskets these days.

Please check the size carefully when choosing.

—Suzu bamboo baskets in Iwate Prefecture—

Suzu bamboo found north area of Iwate pref. is said to be particularly strong and flexible.
Suzu bamboo crafts have been made with this bamboo for more than 1,000 years.

However, since around 2015, Suzu bamboo has been dying all over Iwate Prefecture for several years.
Suzu bamboo crafts are now more precious than ever,
as it has become more and more difficult to gather high-quality Suzu bamboo for use as material.

Suzu bamboo is said to die after blooming small yellow flowers when it reaches the end of its life span, and after the bamboo withers,
which is said to occur once every 120 years.
It is said to take 10 to 20 years for the young shoots to grow tall enough to be used for bamboo crafts.

This was an inexperienced situation even for the makers
who have been involved in Suzu bamboo crafts for many years.
Nevertheless, they have continued their traditional crafts by carefully walking in the mountains
and using only a tenth of the amount of Suzu bamboo that is normally harvested.